It's not about 17 million this year, it's about the chance to sign for 75 ish million over 5 or 6 years... if he blows out his back after getting a long contract everyone will think he is a genius. Heck, if he gets 60 million for 6 years people will think he is a dumbass, but in 4 or 5 years his GM will trying to unload his contract just to get it off the payroll and people will be wondering how he got so much for so long.

He is playing it smart, with his health issues, he has to go another full season before he can fish for a new contract if he doesn't opt out. Plus, if he is in it for the love of the game, he will be taking less money per year, but more over time in an effort to give his team more cap space to sign other good players for a chance to win it all.

There is a lot of positives in him opting out... you guys have to look at the bigger picture... what good is 17 million this year if he blows out his back again and can't get another big deal?